LIEGE, Belgium — Belgium built on its World Cup momentum with a 2-0 victory over Australia on Thursday in a preparation game for 2016 European Championship qualifying.

Belgium turned dominance into a goal in the 18th minute. First, winger Kevin De Bruyne hit the woodwork and the rebound eventually fell to Dries Mertens, who miscued an angled shot which ricocheted in over goalkeeper Matthew Ryan.

Axel Witsel doubled the score in the 78th with a long-distance drive.

Australia played aggressively and was lucky to escape with only one yellow card to Mathew Leckie.